Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar (for icing)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (for icing)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
- Prepare the cake batter:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
- Alternately add the dry ingredients and sour cream, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Gradually add the milk, mixing until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- Bake the cake:
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the lemon icing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more powdered sugar or lemon juice if needed.
- Assemble the cake:
- Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate.
- Spread a layer of lemon icing on top and then place the second cake layer on top.
- Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining lemon icing.
- Garnish and serve:
- Sprinkle lemon zest over the top for a fresh and vibrant finish.
- Slice, serve, and enjoy the refreshing, creamy texture of this delightful lemon cake!
Enjoy your light, zesty, and creamy lemon cake!